Puritan Bennett Breeze CPAP Mask

Chat Transcript Summary

August 17, 2004

Below is the transcript from our Puritan Bennett Breeze SleepGear™ Moderated Chat that took place on August 16, 2004.

Puritan Bennett is one of the world's premier producers of respiratory-related medical products serving patients from the hospital to the home. A part of Tyco Healthcare, Puritan Bennett is a leader in ventilators, oxygen, spirometry, sleep therapy and other respiratory care products.

Puritan Bennett offers a range of sleep diagnostic systems and clinical information software developed by Clinivision Clinical Information Systems. Puritan Bennett's technological expertise and in-depth understanding of real-world clinical issues have resulted in numerous improvements in the field of respiratory care.

Puritan Bennett offers an exceptional level of customer support that includes technical service and clinical education resources. For more information, visit www.puritanbennett.com.

Puritan Bennett recently released an improved version of its popular Breeze SleepGear™ CPAP Interface System for sleep apnea patients. The innovative Breeze SleepGear interface can be used with either Nasal Pillows or the Puritan Bennett® DreamSeal® Mask.

A number of design enhancements were made to the Breeze SleepGear interface based on patient feedback. The hose guide for the Nasal Pillows assembly has an improved design and features a stronger material to increase longevity. In addition, a new clip has been added to the Nasal Pillows assembly that gives patients greater flexibility in positioning the halo straps to help keep the interface securely positioned on the head.

The cradle pad on the Breeze SleepGear interface has thicker padding to increase comfort, and a cuff has been added to the swivel adapter for greater convenience when disconnecting the interface.

Joining us today is Mei-Mei Stark, Sleep Therapy Product Manager, at Puritan Bennett. Her educational background includes a Bachelor's degree in Engineering from Cornell University and an MBA from UC Berkeley, with over 15 years' of experience in engineering and marketing.

Questions

1. What improvements have been made to the Breeze SleepGear System?
2. What interface options are available with the Breeze SleepGear System?
3. How is the Breeze CPAP mask packaged?
4. How far in the nose do the Nasal Pillows go?
5. Can the Breeze SleepGear System be used with any other CPAP and auto-PAP units?
6. Can I purchase the Breeze SleepGear System directly from Puritan Bennett?
7. Which will work better for me - the Nasal Pillows or DreamSeal mask?
8. I have been using the Breeze SleepGear for over 2 years, and sometimes I have a problem with the direction of the exhaled air. Can you help?
9. Can I order accessories or spare parts for the Breeze SleepGear System?
10. Will the Breeze SleepGear System work for people who sleep on their sides?
11. How should the back of the headgear fit?
12. It seems like other companies are introducing masks using Nasal Pillows. Can I use the Puritan Bennett Nasal Pillows on their masks?
13. Where can I get more information on the Breeze SleepGear System?
14. What are Nasal Pillows?
15. What sizes do the Nasal Pillows come in?
16. What are Nasal Dilators? Are they the same as Nasal Pillows?
17. Is there any latex in the Breeze SleepGear System?
18. What sizes does the DreamSeal mask come in?
19. Are the halo straps different in the new Breeze SleepGear System?
20. What are the halo straps made of?
21. Why did it take Puritan Bennett so long to fix the Breeze SleepGear System?
22. How much does the Breeze CPAP mask cost? Do the Nasal Pillows cost more than the DreamSeal mask?
23. Is it easy to take the Breeze SleepGear on and off?
24. Did you complete any customer evaluations with the new Breeze SleepGear?
25. I think I might have Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Should I try the Breeze SleepGear?
26. How much does the Breeze SleepGear weigh?
27. I have been a user of the Breeze SleepGear for over two years and I love it! How often should I replace my Nasal Pillows?
28. How tight should the black halo straps be?
29. I love the Nasal Pillows, but sometimes my nostrils get irritated. Do you have any advice?
30. Can the Breeze SleepGear be used for all pressures?
31. I have been happy with my Breeze SleepGear System for three years. Should I try the new Breeze SleepGear?
32. I have been using Breeze SleepGear for two years, and the hose guide just broke. Can I get a replacement for just this piece?
33. Is the Breeze SleepGear System covered under a warranty?
34. What kind of mechanical testing was completed for the new Breeze SleepGear?
35. Will Puritan Bennett be releasing any new interfaces?
36. How is the Breeze CPAP mask different from the Puritan Bennett ADAM™ interface?
37. I have problems with the padding and adhesive. Have you corrected this?
38. I have an old Breeze SleepGear. How can I get the new hose guide?
39. My nostrils are actually two different sizes... can I use the Breeze SleepGear?
40. I have a very narrow nose... can I use the Breeze SleepGear?
41. I have been using the Breeze SleepGear for three years, and do not use the black halo straps. Do I need to use the straps with the new model?
42. I've tried the Breeze SleepGear before, and it didn't feel stable on my head. Is the new version better?
43. Who should I call if I have a problem with my mask adjustment?
44. Can I still buy the old Breeze SleepGear?
45. Does the Breeze SleepGear adjust for patients with different facial structures?
46. Can I wear glasses with the Breeze SleepGear?
47. The headgear looks unusual. Is it comfortable?
48. Is the Breeze SleepGear a good choice for women?
49. How do I clean the Breeze SleepGear?
50. Does Puritan Bennett offer a full face mask?
51. What do I do about leaks?
52. What is the most popular size of Nasal Pillows?
53. How can I tell what size Nasal Pillows I have?
54. Can the Breeze CPAP mask be cleaned with vinegar?
55. What do you think about other manufacturers coming out with masks that use Nasal Pillows too?
56. I've tried to find information on the Breeze SleepGear and your GoodKnight® 420 CPAP System on your website and get lost. Please help.
57. I lost my Breeze SleepGear Users Manual. How can I get a replacement?
58. My homecare dealer fit me with the Breeze SleepGear, but I took the Nasal Pillows out to clean, and now I can't remember how to put them back in! Please help.
59. Can I take the Breeze SleepGear apart to pack for travel?
60. I'm using a competitor's headgear but it makes me sweat a lot and has become worn out. How is the Breeze SleepGear different and should I try it?
61. I have a moustache, and I haven't been able find a mask to give me a good seal. Will the Breeze SleepGear work for patients with facial hair?
62. I was just diagnosed with OSA a few weeks ago, and I can't get used to my nasal mask. Should I try the Breeze SleepGear?
63. I have claustrophobia and am afraid to use my CPAP system. Do you have any advice?
64. How do I remove the DreamSeal mask from the shell?
65. How often should I clean the Breeze SleepGear?
66. Can I put the Breeze mask in the dishwasher?
67. Will sunlight harm my Breeze SleepGear mask?
68. How should my homecare provider fit me with the Breeze mask? Should I be sitting up or in sleeping position?
69. How often should I replace my mask?
70. What size is the hose connection?
71. What is the Breeze SleepGear made of?
72. When did you start shipping the new Breeze?
73. Where can I get the leak rate for the Breeze SleepGear?

Answers

1. What improvements have been made to the Breeze SleepGear System?
   
   The following new features have been added to make the Breeze SleepGear System even better: 1. The hose guide for the Nasal Pillows assembly has an improved design and features a stronger material to ensure greater durability and longevity. 2. A new clip has been added to the Nasal Pillows assembly to give patients greater flexibility in positioning the halo straps for a secure fit. 3. The cradle pad has thicker padding to increase comfort. 4. A cuff has been added to the swivel adapter for improved convenience.
   
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2. What interface options are available with the Breeze SleepGear System?
   
   The Breeze SleepGear can be used with either Puritan Bennett Nasal Pillows or the Puritan Bennett DreamSeal mask.
   
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3. How is the Breeze SleepGear System packaged?
   
   The Breeze SleepGear Interface System includes the headgear, airway assembly, halo straps, 15-mm tubing, User's manual, and Nasal Pillows or DreamSeal mask.
   
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4. How far in the nose do the Nasal Pillows go?
   
   The Nasal Pillows should be gently inserted into the nares; however, the amount of force on your nose should be just enough to prevent air leaks.
   
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5. Can the Breeze SleepGear System be used with any other CPAP and auto-PAP units?
   
   The Breeze SleepGear has been tested and validated for use with Puritan Bennett CPAP and bi-level devices, including the Puritan Bennett GoodKnight® 420E Auto-PAP and KnightStar 330 Bi-Level® devices. For other manufacturers' devices, contact that manufacturer or your homecare provider to ask about compatibility.
   
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6. Can I purchase the Breeze SleepGear System directly from Puritan Bennett?
   
   Unfortunately, Puritan Bennett does not sell directly to patients. Please contact your homecare provider or online providers.
   
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7. Which will work better for me - the Nasal Pillows or DreamSeal mask?
   
   Puritan Bennett has completed extensive research with patients to identify their needs. We've learned that only patients can determine what is best for them. You should work with your homecare provider to find an interface that is best for you. The Nasal Pillows and DreamSeal Airway Assemblies are interchangeable with the Breeze SleepGear system.
   
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8. I have been using the Breeze SleepGear for over 2 years, and sometimes I have a problem with the direction of the exhaled air. Can you help?
   
   For the Nasal Pillows, you can pivot the shell to re-direct the exhaled air to best suit your needs. Note that the vent hole inserts for the Nasal Pillows shell and the DreamSeal shell are not compatible. The Nasal Pillows vent hole insert features two raised indicator dots, while the DreamSeal vent hole insert has a single raised indicator dot.
   
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9. Can I order accessories or spare parts for the Breeze SleepGear System?
   
   Accessories and spare parts are available for the Breeze SleepGear System, but Puritan Bennett does not sell directly to patients. Please contact your homecare provider or online providers. It is also a good idea to check with your health plan or health insurance carrier, because many may cover accessories and spare parts when needed. A complete list of Breeze SleepGear System accessories can be found on our website, www.puritanbennett.com.
   
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10. Will the Breeze SleepGear System work for people who sleep on their sides?
    
    The streamlined design of the Breeze SleepGear System contours the head and floats over the face, giving patients the freedom to sleep in virtually any position.
    
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11. How should the back of the headgear fit?
    
    The Breeze SleepGear interface spine should be adjusted so the cradle comfortably fits the curve at the back of the head.
    
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12. It seems like other companies are introducing masks using Nasal Pillows. Can I use the Puritan Bennett Nasal Pillows on their masks?
    
    No, our Puritan Bennett Nasal Pillows cannot be used with other Nasal Pillow masks made by other manufacturers. Puritan Bennett was the first company to introduce Nasal Pillows, and our technology is truly unique. For one thing, the Puritan Bennett Nasal Pillows can be rotated to best fit your nares. You probably know that many people have a different size left and right foot. Well, it happens that people also have different size nares, and with our Puritan Bennett Nasal Pillows, you can actually use a different size for each nare, if necessary.
    
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13. Where can I get more information on the Breeze SleepGear System?
    
    Visit our website at www.puritanbennett.com.
    
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14. What are Nasal Pillows?
    
    Nasal Pillows are a unique interface option for CPAP patients. Unlike nasal or full face masks that cover the entire nose, Nasal Pillows are inserted into the patient's nares, allowing for a very unobtrusive interface solution. The Breeze SleepGear System with Nasal Pillows is preferred by patients who tend to suffer from claustrophobia.
    
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15. What sizes do the Nasal Pillows come in?
    
    The Puritan Bennett Nasal Pillows are offered in four sizes: Small (blue), Medium (clear), Large (green), Extra Large (purple). In addition, the Nasal Dilators are offered in 3 sizes: Small (gray), Medium (white), Large (yellow).
    
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16. What are Nasal Dilators? Are they the same as Nasal Pillows?
    
    Nasal Dilators are offered in three sizes - Small, Medium and Large. The Dilators are longer and thicker than the Nasal Pillows and work well for patients with deviated septums.
    
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17. Is there any latex in the Breeze SleepGear System?
    
    The Nasal Pillows and DreamSeal mask are made of medical-grade silicone. The Breeze SleepGear is not manufactured with any latex.
    
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18. What sizes does the DreamSeal mask come in?
    
    The Puritan Bennett DreamSeal mask is offered in three sizes: Standard, Large and Shallow.
    
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19. Are the halo straps different in the new Breeze SleepGear System?
    
    Great question! In order to accommodate the new clip that is now part of the Breeze with Nasal Pillows hose guide, the black halo straps are now about 1 inch longer to allow for a more forward positioning of the straps. The new clip can be placed in one of three positions, giving patients greater flexibility for a secure fit. Depending on the size of your head, you may or may not need the longer straps, and you may still be able to use your old straps.
    
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20. What are the halo straps made of?
    
    The halo straps are made of Velstretch® which is made of nylon and spandex.
    
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21. Why did it take Puritan Bennett so long to fix the Breeze SleepGear System?
    
    This is actually our first publicized change to the Breeze SleepGear System. After the initial release of the Breeze, patients reported many failures in the hose guide portion of the product. We instituted changes in the manufacture of that part in November of 2002 that resulted in a significant decline in failure rates. However, Puritan Bennett continues to strive to offer the most comfortable and reliable products, and we therefore implemented additional product revisions that we released in July 2004.
    
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22. How much does the Breeze SleepGear System cost? Do the Nasal Pillows cost more than the DreamSeal mask?
    
    You will need to contact your homecare provider or online providers for pricing. In general, the pricing for Nasal Pillows and DreamSeal mask should be the same.
    
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23. Is it easy to take the Breeze SleepGear on and off?
    
    I think you will find the Breeze SleepGear very easy to put on and take off. Unlike other headgear and masks, it does not have any complicated or confining straps to contend with. Once your homecare provider has fit you with the Breeze SleepGear, it is very easy to put on, and you can actually use just one hand to take it off.
    
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24. Did you complete any customer evaluations with the new Breeze SleepGear?
    
    Yes, we did complete customer evaluations in which the improved Breeze SleepGear System with Nasal Pillows was compared with the old Breeze SleepGear and masks from other manufacturers. We are pleased to report that patients overwhelmingly preferred the new Breeze SleepGear compared with their current interface.
    
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25. I think I might have Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Should I try the Breeze SleepGear?
    
    Obstructive Sleep Apnea needs to be diagnosed, and you will need a prescription for CPAP therapy. You should contact your physician and ask if you should be referred for a sleep study.
    
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26. How much does the Breeze SleepGear weigh?
    
    The Breeze SleepGear System is a very compact interface that weighs only 120 grams (or about ¼ pound).
    
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27. I have been a user of the Breeze SleepGear for over two years and I love it! How often should I replace my Nasal Pillows?
    
    With regular care, your Nasal Pillows should last several months. However, replacement schedule varies by patient. If you see that your Nasal Pillows are worn, you should consult your homecare provider. Keep in mind that most insurance covers replacement Nasal Pillows when needed.
    
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28. How tight should the black halo straps be?
    
    This is another great question! The Breeze SleepGear System can actually be worn without the halo straps; however, some patients prefer some extra stability. Do not overtighten the halo straps - they should be adjusted for a comfortable fit.
    
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29. I love the Nasal Pillows, but sometimes my nostrils get irritated. Do you have any advice?
    
    Some patients require some time to get accustomed to the feel of the Nasal Pillows. You can also interchange between Nasal Pillows and the DreamSeal mask, as the cradle piece is a common part for both interface options. You should note that applying lubricants to the Nasal Pillows can shorten the life of the product.
    
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30. Can the Breeze SleepGear be used for all pressures?
    
    The Breeze SleepGear can be used for pressures of 3 - 35 cm H2O.
    
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31. I have been happy with my Breeze SleepGear System for three years. Should I try the new Breeze SleepGear?
    
    The new Breeze SleepGear incorporates features that provide an even more comfortable fit. Therefore, you should check with your homecare provider to determine if your insurance carrier might reimburse for some parts or the whole system, and you will probably be even happier with the new model.
    
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32. I have been using Breeze SleepGear for two years, and the hose guide just broke. Can I get a replacement for just this piece?
    
    The hose guide is available as a replacement part and is compatible with your old Breeze SleepGear parts. You should verify your insurance coverage, and contact your homecare provider.
    
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33. Is the Breeze SleepGear System covered under a warranty?
    
    Yes, Puritan Bennett warrants that the product will be free of defects in materials and workmanship as of the date of shipment, and thereafter for the warranty period of 90 days from date of shipment to the initial purchaser from Puritan Bennett or one of its authorized dealers. Certain coverage exclusions apply.
    
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34. What kind of mechanical testing was completed for the new Breeze SleepGear?
    
    The new Nasal Pillows hose guide design underwent significant mechanical testing to ensure its improved durability including over 1400 cycles of simulated removal of the interface. 1400 cycles represents almost four years of daily use!
    
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35. Will Puritan Bennett be releasing any new interfaces?
    
    Puritan Bennett continues to complete market research with the intent to release new interfaces that will improve overall patient compliance with CPAP therapy, which of course means more comfort, easy adjustability and addressing all the issues that patients encounter throughout the night, including awakenings, movement and changing sleep positions.
    
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36. How is the Breeze SleepGear different from the Puritan Bennett ADAMTM interface?
    
    The Breeze SleepGear is a more complex, yet streamlined design compared with the ADAM interface, but it is much easier to put on and take off. If you like the ADAM interface, I think you may want to give the Breeze SleepGear a try.
    
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37. I have problems with the padding and adhesive. Have you corrected this?
    
    The padding thickness has been increased in the new Breeze SleepGear to increase comfort, yet the adhesive has not been changed. It is a strong adhesive selected to uphold the expected longevity of the Breeze SleepGear system. However, note that the parts with foam pads should never be immersed in water, and you should always follow the cleaning instructions to prolong the life of your product.
    
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38. I have an old Breeze SleepGear. How can I get the new hose guide?
    
    The new hose guide is available as a spare part and is compatible with your old Breeze SleepGear parts. You should check your insurance coverage, and contact your homecare provider or check with online providers.
    
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39. My nostrils are actually two different sizes... can I use the Breeze SleepGear?
    
    Yes! You can use two different size Nasal Pillows!
    
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40. I have a very narrow nose... can I use the Breeze SleepGear?
    
    You should be able to use the Breeze SleepGear System with Nasal Pillows. The Nasal Pillow shell and the adjustability of the positioning of the Nasal Pillows should be able to accommodate a narrow nose. As always, you should check with your homecare provider.
    
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41. I have been using the Breeze SleepGear for three years, and do not use the black halo straps. Do I need to use the straps with the new model?
    
    For both the old and new models of the Breeze SleepGear System, the halo straps are optional.
    
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42. I've tried the Breeze SleepGear before, and it didn't feel stable on my head. Is the new version better?
    
    The new clip feature of the Breeze SleepGear with Nasal Pillows provides more stability. This new clip has been added to give patients greater flexibility in positioning the halo straps for a secure and stable fit. There are three different positions for the clip to allow you to decide what feels best.
    
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43. Who should I call if I have a problem with my mask adjustment?
    
    You should always contact your homecare provider or physician first for all your patient care needs. However, Puritan Bennett's Technical Support phone number is 1-800-255-6774.
    
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44. Can I still buy the old Breeze SleepGear?
    
    We started shipping the new Breeze SleepGear with Nasal Pillows on July 16, 2004. There might be a possibility that your homecare provider or online providers still have some inventory of the old models. However, if you are used to the old Breeze SleepGear, I think you will find the new model even more comfortable.
    
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45. Does the Breeze SleepGear adjust for patients with different facial structures?
    
    Different facial structures don't really need to be addressed when you are fitted with the Breeze SleepGear. The streamlined design contours the head and floats over the face, so there are no complicated or confining adjustments across the cheeks.
    
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46. Can I wear glasses with the Breeze SleepGear?
    
    Yes, the Breeze SleepGear was designed so that you could wear glasses with the interface on.
    
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47. The headgear looks unusual. Is it comfortable?
    
    In our customer evaluations, there was overwhelming response that patients preferred the new Breeze SleepGear over their current interface system. I would say the Breeze SleepGear is definitely comfortable!
    
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48. Is the Breeze SleepGear a good choice for women?
    
    The Breeze SleepGear is ideal for all patients, including women, due to the unobtrusive design.
    
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49. How do I clean the Breeze SleepGear?
    
    Wash the nasal airway assembly parts in warm, soapy water as necessary to remove dirt, body oils, cosmetics, etc. Rinse them thoroughly in clean running water and air dry on a clean, absorbent surface. Foam pads may be wiped with a mild soap applied to a moist cloth. To prolong the life of the product, it is recommended that the Breeze SleepGear be cleaned thoroughly at least once per week.
    
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50. Does Puritan Bennett offer a full face mask?
    
    Puritan Bennett does not currently offer a full face mask, but we continue to complete market research to determine needs for new products.
    
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51. What do I do about leaks?
    
    Your Nasal Pillows or DreamSeal mask may not be the correct size for you. The amount of force on your nose should be just enough to prevent air leaks, and you may need to readjust the fit of the Breeze SleepGear when you lie down. You should contact your homecare dealer to confirm that your interface is properly fitted.
    
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52. What is the most popular size of Nasal Pillows?
    
    Medium and Large are the most popular sizes of Nasal Pillows.
    
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53. How can I tell what size Nasal Pillows I have?
    
    The Nasal Pillows and Dilators are color-coded for each size. Nasal Pillows are offered in four sizes: Small (blue), Medium (clear), Large (green), Extra Large (purple). Nasal Dilators are offered in three sizes: Small (gray), Medium (white), Large (yellow).
    
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54. Can the Breeze SleepGear be cleaned with vinegar?
    
    Vinegar should not be used. In addition, do not use bleach-, chlorine-, or aromatic-based solutions, scented oils, or moisturizing, antibacterial, deodorizing, or fragranced soaps to clean the Nasal Pillows, mask, headgear, padding or air tubing. Use of such substances may cause hardening of your Breeze SleepGear, thereby reducing the life of the product. Wash the nasal airway assembly parts in warm, soapy water as necessary to remove dirt, body oils, cosmetics, etc. Rinse them thoroughly in clean running water and air dry on a clean, absorbent surface. Foam pads may be wiped with a mild soap applied to a moist cloth.
    
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55. What do you think about other manufacturers coming out with masks that use Nasal Pillows too?
    
    The number of patients getting diagnosed with OSA continues to grow, and so does the number of patients requiring replacement interfaces. Puritan Bennett continues to invest in market research and product development so we can help improve overall compliance to therapy with improved product innovations. If you compare the Puritan Bennett Breeze SleepGear System with recent new products, I think you will see that only Puritan Bennett offers the different adjustability points for rotation and fitting for different nares. The competitor "Nasal Pillow" systems are two-prong, and appear more difficult to provide a precise fit.
    
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56. I've tried to find information on the Breeze SleepGear and your GoodKnight® 420 CPAP System on your website and get lost. Please help.
    
    We just re-vamped and re-launched our website. Please check it out, as I think you will find that it is much easier to navigate for product information. From the home page, click on Products, and then Sleep Therapy product category.
    
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57. I lost my Breeze SleepGear Users Manual. How can I get a replacement?
    
    You can download the Users Manual from our website, www.puritanbennett.com.
    
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58. My homecare dealer fit me with the Breeze SleepGear, but I took the Nasal Pillows out to clean, and now I can't remember how to put them back in! Please help.
    
    While pinching the Nasal Pillows between the thumb and forefinger, insert one "ridge" of the Nasal Pillows into the shell holes with a gentle rotating motion. The smaller diameter should be placed in the nares. For more detailed instructions, refer to your Users Manual.
    
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59. Can I take the Breeze SleepGear apart to pack for travel?
    
    Yes, the airway assembly can be removed from the assembly spine adapter. This will make it easier to pack for travel. For more detailed instructions, please consult your Users Manual.
    
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60. I'm using a competitor's headgear but it makes me sweat a lot and has become worn out. How is the Breeze SleepGear different and should I try it?
    
    Certain competitor products, such as the Comfort Lite from Respironics have some features also available in the Breeze SleepGear, so it's probably worth trying the Breeze SleepGear interface. The Breeze SleepGear is a streamlined design that floats over the head, with minimal facial contact. You should contact your homecare provider.
    
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61. I have a moustache, and I haven't been able find a mask to give me a good seal. Will the Breeze SleepGear work for patients with facial hair?
    
    The Breeze SleepGear with Nasal Pillows is ideal for patients with facial hair. The Nasal Pillows are a unique interface option, which gently seal at the patient's nares, so facial hair is not an issue.
    
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62. I was just diagnosed with OSA a few weeks ago, and I can't get used to my nasal mask. Should I try the Breeze SleepGear?
    
    I cannot tell you what interface is best for you, as that is truly up to the patient. However, you can check the product features of the Breeze SleepGear and competitor interfaces through various online providers. You will see that the Breeze SleepGear has an unobtrusive design that is easy to fit, put on and take off.
    
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63. I have claustrophobia and am afraid to use my CPAP system. Do you have any advice?
    
    Starting CPAP therapy can be intimidating; however, you need to expect an adjustment period to get used to the equipment. CPAP patients have loved the Breeze SleepGear for over 5 years for its unobtrusive design, and the ease of putting it on and taking it off. If you are claustrophobic, the Nasal Pillows are probably a good choice for you because they are simply gently inserted into the nares. With the Breeze SleepGear, you will not struggle with a complicated or confining design.
    
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64. How do I remove the DreamSeal mask from the shell?
    
    Place your thumb and forefinger on the two raised circles on the DreamSeal and squeeze gently to disengage the two side latches. Rotate the DreamSeal mask away from the shell and disengage the lip on the bottom of the DreamSeal from the notch on the bottom of the shell. For more detailed instructions, refer to the Users Manual, which should have been included in your Breeze SleepGear package.
    
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65. How often should I clean the Breeze SleepGear?
    
    To prolong the life of the product, we recommend that the Breeze SleepGear interface be cleaned thoroughly at least once per week.
    
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66. Can I put the Breeze SleepGear in the dishwasher?
    
    The Breeze SleepGear should be hand cleaned only. To avoid damage to the product, never use a dishwasher or other mechanical device to clean any of its components.
    
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67. Will sunlight harm my Breeze SleepGear mask?
    
    Do not expose the mask or tubing to direct sunlight, which may cause deterioration of these parts.
    
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68. How should my homecare provider fit me with the Breeze SleepGear? Should I be sitting up or in sleeping position?
    
    Patients really should be fitted in a sleeping or laying down position. This is how you will be using the interface.
    
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69. How often should I replace my mask?
    
    For any mask, you should always follow proper care and cleaning, which will maximize the product performance. Note that you should always check with your insurance carrier for your specific situation and details because most insurance companies cover replacement masks as needed.
    
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70. What size is the hose connection?
    
    The Breeze SleepGear hose is 15 mm and fits any 22 mm connection.
    
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71. What is the Breeze SleepGear made of?
    
    The Nasal Pillows and perimeter seal of the DreamSeal mask are made of medical grade silicone. The halo straps are made of nylon and spandex.
    
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72. When did you start shipping the new Breeze?
    
    The new Breeze SleepGear with Nasal Pillows started shipping to Puritan Bennett customers on July 16, 2004.
    
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73. Where can I get the leak rate for the Breeze SleepGear?
    
    Please refer to the Users Guide that was included in your Breeze SleepGear package. The Users Guide can also be downloaded from our website, www.puritanbennett.com.
    
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